Lithuania international Edgaras Utkus enjoyed a superb evening in the Saudi Pro League, scoring once and providing an assist as Al-Kholood claimed their first league victory of the season with a thrilling 3-2 home win over Al Taawoun.
The 26-year-old centre-back once again started in the heart of Al-Kholood’s defence and made his mark in the 21st minute. Rising highest from a set-piece, Utkus powered a header into the net to score his first goal of the new campaign and his second since joining the Saudi club.
Al-Kholood doubled their advantage shortly afterwards before Utkus contributed again just before half-time. The Lithuanian defender turned provider, setting up Suriname international Shaquille Pinas to make it 3-0 and put the hosts firmly in control heading into the break.
Al Taawoun mounted a late comeback in the second half, pulling one goal back early after the restart before adding another deep into stoppage time to reduce the deficit to 3-2. However, the visitors ran out of time to find an equaliser as Al-Kholood held on to collect all three points.
Utkus completed the full 90 minutes in an outstanding all-round performance at both ends of the pitch.
The victory leaves Al-Kholood sixth in the Saudi Pro League standings with four points from their opening two matches. They return to league action on Wednesday with an away trip to Al Diriyah.
